Weedy rice management
Weedy rice is a major weed problem faced by rice farmers of Pathanamthitta district KVK has conducted OFT and FLDs and come up with an integrated approach to control this menace. Stale Seedbed Technology: The seed bank of wild rice can be reduced using stale seedbed practice. In this technology, the paddy field is kept ready one month before cultivation. After light irrigation, the weedy rice, which emerges in 15 days is killed using a non-selective herbicide like glyphosate 41EC @2.5L/ha. After 3 days of glyphosate application, the field is flooded to kill the weeds. Later the water level is maintained at 2cm depth, and oxyfluorfen 23.5EC is applied @ 625ml/ha to arrest the weed growth. Surface application of oxyfluorfen @ -1 0.2 to 0.3 kg ha in 2cm standing water three days before sowing. Water is retained in the field, and pre-germinated paddy seeds can be broadcasted. In weedy rice panicle in initiation starts with 55 to 60 days after sowing. Herbicides such as glyphosate/glufosinate ammonia can be used in higher concentration for destroying this emerging panicle. The herbicide impregnated wick/wiper applicators can be swiped on the panicles at this stage. It will dry the panicles and prevent further multiplication. Integrating all these technologies will reduce the menace of weedy rice.
